Question:
What can I do to relax before surgery?

I was being nosey on here the other day and seen the memorial...... Ever since seeing that, i have not been able to sleep, due to being scared to death. My surgery is in les than a month and i dont think i can take anything for that as far as medication. Does anyone know what to do to relax before surgery. Can someone please help!    — Amanda G. (posted on February 7, 2002)

February 7, 2002
Hi, I am not post-op, but I do think it would be nice if there were a way for the Memorial Page to be invisible to those who are not. Yes, people do die from this surgery. However, MANY MORE do not. It is normal to be somewhat nervous before the surgery. After all, it is major surgery. However, the chances of your having problems if you stay MO far outweigh the chances of your dying if you do have it. Keep reminding yourself why you are doing this. To have better health, to be able to walk without being out of breath, to be able to fit in an airline seat, to be there for your family and so on and so on. You'll do fine.
   — garw

February 7, 2002
One of the best things I have found is a book and tape by Peggy Huddleston called Prepare for Surgery Heal Faster. It really gives you an increased awareness of control and reduces anxiety. I think that my easy recovery was largely due to the suggestions she recommends. I had the anesthesiologist read my healing statements while I was going under and coming out of anesthesia. It was so empowering and reassuring. You can find her book on line or at bookstores. Think health and peace, You will do fine. Kathy
   — kathleen S.

February 7, 2002
Yes, people do die from this surgery. Of course, they die from a lot of different kinds of surgery. I know it is scary to go "under the knife" but it is very important that you go into this surgery with hope, knowing that your decision is the right one. The ideas of previous posters are great. Focus on the before-and-after pics section rather than the memorial section.
   — Terissa R.

February 7, 2002
I wrote letters to my family Just in case I didn't make to tell them I loved them, and let them know it was just my time to try to comfort them. It did make me sad writing them, but it alleviated alot of my anxiety knowing I made my peace. may not work for everyone, but I felt a whole lot better after.
   — sbinkerd1

February 7, 2002
I spent lots of time reading Barb Thompsons great book about weight loss surgery. She is a member here. I read to find out what to expect and know what I could do to help myself under any circumstances. For instance I walked IMMEDIATELY after getting to my room from recovery. To minimize blood clot risks, stuff like that. Read my profile for more info. We are responsible to be GOOD post ops and do what we can to minimize problems. I too wrote some goodbye letters. I hid them at home and made my surgeon promise to tell jen where to find them if I didnt make it. The memorial site is a good thing. Each of us needs to know the risks and rewards of surgery to make a INFORMED decision. My ONLY regret is that I didnt do this years ago. Oh be SURE to attend support group meetings, seeng the happy healthy post ops REALLY helps. Hey take a post op to dinner! See them eat small amounts of healthy food. YOU can be like that post op having dinner with you!!! You are about to have the best experience of your life...LOOSING THE WEIGHT... ITS FUN! Go get em.
   — bob-haller

February 7, 2002
Some people use prayer, others meditation. I found that using guided imagery tapes helped me remain calm before surgery and manage my stress and pain after surgery.<BR> I used the Successful Surgery tape from <A href="http://www.healthjourneys.com">Health Journeys</A>. I also got plenty of exercise (whatever YOU can do) to help prepare my heart and lungs (and head) for my RNY.<BR> You have a month, find what's best for you and use it! Good luck!
   — Sheila C.

February 8, 2002
I asked my doctor if I could have a sedative when I got to the hospital and I got one shortly after getting there. It took the edge off but I was so excited about my new life I was ready to go. You will do fine. Xanax (a prescription drug) is what I used for anxiety before the surgery.
   — MARSHA D.